I don't think it would be a Barn Owl as the basal part of the feather would be whitish not dark grey. The distribution and populations of Long-eared Owls are not well known. More can be found in winter as Scandinavian birds are known to occur in larger numbers in some years, so it might just be from one

can you show me some evidence like a photo of the feather on the bird because unfortunately I'm not convinced. if any other suggestions spring to mind I'll be happy to hear them. thank you very much Scott.

thanks a lot for your help, a photo would be great though, Scott.
I have done some digging my self and think they it is a tawny owl as a picture on the internet seems to look a lot like it, not to mention I know that there are tawny owls in the area and they are very common. I have took the picture off the internet and put I next to mine so you can compare. I hope to hear your opinion, thanks a lot Scott.